Business Details
14 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Opticians in Thornaby
Mellis Eyecare is a family-run independent optometry practice serving the Teesside area since 2012. Established by brothers Iain and Robert Mellis, we combine traditional techniques with modern technology to deliver comprehensive eye care. Our Thornaby practice, located within a GP Medical Centre, offers state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment including Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) scans and retinal imaging. We specialise in advanced eye examinations, contact lens fittings, low vision assessments, and designer eyewear.With professional accreditations in low vision, glaucoma, and medical retina care, our team prioritises patient education and preventative care. We maintain strong community ties through student mentoring partnerships with Teesside University and offer tailored services for children and individuals with special needs. Our commitment to quality extends to a curated selection of designer frames from brands like Ray-Ban and Oliver Goldsmith, alongside NHS-compliant optical solutions.
Services
Eye Examinations
Contact Lenses
Low Vision Assessments
Dry Eye Treatments
Children's Eye Care
Designer Eyewear
Emergency Eye Care
Myopia Control
Retinal Scans
Blepharitis Treatment
Details
- Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
- We offer advanced OCT retinal scans for early disease detection
- Our team holds specialist qualifications in low vision and glaucoma care
- We provide emergency eye appointments within 24 hours
- We stock designer eyewear brands including Ray-Ban and Oliver Goldsmith
- Our practice accommodates wheelchair users and special needs patients
What people say
Brilliant staff
Happy experience
Understand disability needs
Excellent service
Family-friendly
Services
Advanced Eye Examinations
Our advanced eye examinations use state-of-the-art technology including OCT scans and retinal imaging to assess eye health. These 40-minute appointments include pupil dilation and Goldmann pressure testing at our Thornaby practice. The detailed assessment helps detect early signs of conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration while ensuring accurate vision correction.
Contact Lens Fittings
We offer comprehensive contact lens fittings with ongoing aftercare support. Our specialists fit daily disposables, silicone hydrogel lenses, and specialist mini-scleral lenses for irregular corneas. The process includes training in insertion/removal techniques and follow-up assessments to ensure optimal comfort and eye health.
Low Vision Assessments
Available on the NHS, our low vision assessments help individuals with significant sight loss maximise remaining vision. Using high-grade optical magnifiers with LED lighting, we provide tailored solutions including specialist aids and environmental adaptations to improve daily living capabilities.
Dry Eye Treatments
We diagnose and manage dry eye conditions through comprehensive anterior eye assessments. Treatment options include BlephEx lid cleaning, prescription lubricants, and lifestyle modifications. Our approach combines diagnostic dyes, Schirmer tests, and advanced lid hygiene techniques to address both symptoms and underlying causes.
Children's Eye Tests
All children under 16 receive free NHS eye tests with specialist assessment tools. Our child-friendly approach includes 3D vision testing and cycloplegic refraction for accurate diagnosis. We offer picture/number charts for younger patients and provide NHS voucher-covered spectacles with extensive frame choices.
People
Iain Mellis
Optometrist
Qualified with Professional Certificates in Low Vision, Glaucoma, and Medical Retina. Specialises in advanced diagnostics and myopia control. Member of the College of Optometrists and British Contact Lens Association. Continues professional development in independent prescribing.
Robert Mellis
Dispensing Optician
Qualified FDSc Dispensing Optician. Manages practice operations and optical product selection. Previously operated family boarding kennels business. Focuses on customer service and spectacle frame expertise.
Annette
Optical Manager
Joined in 2013, became Optical Manager in 2022. Specialises in frame selection and customer care. Balances professional responsibilities with family life while managing practice optical inventory.
Wendy
Optical Assistant
Over 20 years' experience in optics. Formerly worked at Spratt and Bently. Combines optical expertise with equestrian achievements. Provides practical advice on spectacle selection and care.
Jade
Optical Assistant
Qualified with distinction in 2022. Specialises in modern optical solutions for younger patients. Combines technical knowledge with approachable service style at the Thornaby practice.
Questions
Do you offer emergency eye appointments?
Yes, we provide emergency eye assessments within 24 hours for urgent issues like sudden vision changes or eye pain.
Are children's eye tests free?
Yes, all children under 16 qualify for free NHS eye tests and receive optical vouchers for spectacles.
What advanced diagnostic technology do you use?
We use Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) scans, retinal imaging, and digital eye charts for comprehensive assessments.
Do you stock designer eyewear?
Yes, we offer designer brands including Ray-Ban, Oliver Goldsmith, and Paul Costello with NHS voucher options.
Can you help with dry eye conditions?
Yes, we provide specialist dry eye assessments and treatments including BlephEx and tailored lubricant recommendations.
Are your practices accessible?
Yes, our Thornaby practice is wheelchair accessible with ground-floor facilities and easy parking access.
